Get Involved

Actions You Can Take to Conserve and Protect Florida’s Natural Resources

1. Plant a Florida Friendly Yard
   UF/IFAS Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension's Florida Yards and Neighborhoods can help you create and maintain landscapes which conserve natural resources, reduce labor and protect our environment.
   
   
2. Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Plants
   Non-native invasive plants displace native plants and associated wildlife. Protect and preserve Florida's natural habitats by recognizing non-native species (visit the UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants), removing non-natives from your yard, and sharing what you learn with others.
   
   
3. Landscape for Wildlife
   The UF/IFAS Florida Backyard Landscapes for Wildlife program provides educational resources to help you landscape your property to be more appealing to birds and other wildlife.
   
   
4. Volunteer to Monitor Bird Populations in Your Backyard and Community.
   Through the UF/IFAS Florida Bird Monitoring Program, help wildlife researchers by tracking what birds are visiting your backyard and community.
   
   
5. Become a Florida Master Naturalist
   Increase your awareness and understanding of Florida's natural world by participating in the UF/IFAS Florida Master Naturalist Program. After earning your Master Naturalist certificate, share your knowledge with others!
   
   
6. Volunteer to Monitor the Water Quality of a Florida's Lakes
   If you have access to a boat, join the UF/IFAS Lakewatch program and volunteer to collect water quality data once a month during the next two years.
   
   
7. Become a Natural Resources Leader
   Apply to become a fellow with the UF/IFAS Natural Resources Leadership Institute and learn how to build consensus around contentious issues and move beyond conflict to find resolution.
   
   
8. Have Your Voice Heard
   South Florida faces many natural resources issues including water quality and quantity, endangered species protection, Everglades restoration, and coastal management. Raise your voice and participate in public decision-making processes that affect natural resources. Study the issues, attend public meetings hosted by government agencies, and communicate your views to decision-makers.